Reconnect. Reflect. Renew—Together in Nature.
Whether you're planning a youth ministry weekend, adult retreat, family fellowship event, or leadership workshop, YMCA Camp Kern is a peaceful and purpose-driven space to gather and grow.
Worship & Reflection
Use our indoor lodges or natural outdoor spaces for prayer, worship services, Bible study, or small group discussions.
Team Building for All Ages
Enhance trust and connection with guided team-building experiences—like low ropes, group initiatives, or equine-assisted learning.
Youth Group Adventures
Keep your students engaged with high ropes, ziplines, camp games, and more—all designed to teach leadership and strengthen friendships in a faith-based setting.
Customize Your Church Group Experience
Our team will work closely with you to build a schedule that fits your ministry’s goals—whether that’s worship-focused, team-driven, recreational, or a blend of all three.
Weekend and weekday availability
Great for youth, men’s/women’s groups, staff retreats, and families
Activities can be faith-themed or strictly recreational—it’s up to you!
Accommodations
Enjoy year-round, village-style lodging with over 500 beds, offering comfort, community, and convenience for your entire group.
Meeting Spaces
From rustic lodges to modern halls, our flexible meeting spaces are perfect for workshops, team-building, and group sessions.
Building Stronger Bonds: What to Expect at Your Camp Kern Event
Learn everything you need to know to plan for your team's special event at YMCA Camp Kern.
Please check in with your Camp Host at the Boda Welcome Center unless other arrangements have been made. Your host will walk you through your schedule, assist at meals, and be available via cell for the duration of your stay.
Yes. Camp Kern is a private facility open only to registered guests. All group members must wear a wristband for safety and security. Wristbands are provided to the group leader at check-in and must be returned if unused, as your group will be invoiced for those used.
Yes—with advance planning. Activities must be included in your signed contract and scheduled at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. Many activities have age or time restrictions.
Yes. A signed waiver is required for all participants joining in Camp Kern-led activities.
It means participants decide how much they want to engage in high adventure activities. For teambuilding, please return the Teambuilding Questionnaire at least 2 weeks before arrival.
No—please bring your own bedding and towels.
Guests must:
Remove personal belongings
Reset tables/chairs
Dispose of trash
Sweep cabins & flip mattresses
Set thermostats, turn off lights & A/C
Close all doors and windows
Note: A cleaning fee will apply if cabins are not left in proper condition.
Family-style: Singerman Lodge & Elk Lodge
Buffet-style: Schiewetz Assembly Hall
Meals are served promptly at 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 5:30 PM, unless stated otherwise in your contract.
Yes! Outside food and catering are allowed. Alcohol is only permitted at Schiewetz Assembly Hall.
Yes. All food provided is nut-free, and guests are asked not to bring any nuts onsite. For other questions about food allergies, Contact our Food Service Director at 513-932-3756 ext. 1516 or Conferencing Team at ext. 1526.
Camp Kern activities continue rain or shine. Be sure to dress appropriately. In severe weather, we may delay or cancel activities and offer refunds if needed.
Yes, but it may be far from some activity areas. We highly recommend bringing reusable water bottles.
Yes—in designated fire rings or fireplaces only. Firewood is usually available but not guaranteed, especially in wet weather or busy seasons. Bring your own kindling and matches just in case.
Yes! Let us know your A/V needs at least 2 weeks before arrival and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Yes! Schedule a time to visit the Canteen, where guests can purchase gear. We accept cash, credit (Visa, Mastercard, Discover), and checks.
A signed contract and a 30% deposit are required to hold your reservation. Final billing is based on your guaranteed minimum or actual number of participants—whichever is greater.
Yes. Wi-Fi access is available at Schiewetz Assembly Hall and Singerman Lodge.
Reserve Your Spot for Church Groups at Camp Kern!
Ready to inspire your church group? Contact our Group Rentals & Team Building team to customize your group's experience and reserve your dates today.
Plan with Confidence: Your Camp Kern Group Rental Guide
Get everything you need to organize a smooth and successful group event at Camp Kern. This easy-to-follow guide includes packing tips, meal details, check-in instructions, facility info, and more—all in one place.
Required Liability Waivers for Camp Activities
To participate in Camp Kern-led activities, each guest must complete a signed waiver. Download the form here and ensure it’s submitted before arrival so your group can jump right into the fun—safely and responsibly.
2025 Rates
Our Group Rentals & Team Building experiences are tailored to the needs of your specific group. We offer a number of flexible packages and add-ons that allow you to create the perfect event at YMCA Camp Kern
| 1/2 Day Programming (3 hr session) | $43-55/person |
| Full Day Programming (2 three-hour sessions) | $67-98/person |
| One Night Lodging | $47/person |
| One Meal | $12-15/person |
| 1 Night Leadership Package | $120-170/person |
| 2 Night Leadership Package | $181-232/person |
| Meeting Space (one day) | $324-2,800/group |
| Horseback Trail Ride | $38/person |
| Ozone Zipline Tour | TBD |
Programming Activities Examples: High Ropes, Obstacle Course, Adventure Challenge, Team Building, Climbing, Archery, Canoeing, BB's etc.
1 Night Leadership Package includes: 3 meals, 6 hours of programming and 1 night accommodation.
2 Night Leadership Package includes: 5 meals, 9 hours of programming and 2 nights accommodation.